Odisha to identify more places for eco-tourism in the state

Published on : Monday, April 12, 2021

For boosting eco-tourism in Odisha, Chief Secretary Suresh Chandra Mahapatra has directed to expand more places for eco-tourism in the state. Eco-tourism has made successful development in Odisha with satisfying livelihood opportunities to 600 local communities and immense benefit to wildlife and forest conservation. The journey started in 2016 under the trend-setting guidance of Chief Secretary Suresh Chandra Mahapatra from his term as Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) forest and environment (Forest and Environment) department.

Additional Chief Secretary of Forest and Environment, Dr. Mona Sharma summarized the present eco-tourism scenario in Odisha along with its administrative and financial outlines for discussion. Chief Secretary Mahapatra directed the DFOs, Collectors and Engineers of Water Resource department to categorize more spots with greater potential for development concerning eco-tourism and water sports facilities.

Mahapatra also directed officers of concerned departments to identify around 100 suitable sites in water bodies for setting up of floating jetties and boating facilities.

The forest department would also identify around 15 forest tracks for providing jungle safari experience for tourists. All these destinations will be managed by the local community including Vana Sanrakshana Samitis (VSS) and Self Help Groups (SHGs).

Mahapatra said, “Proper choice of the location and their popularisation will attract private investment to the sector soon, and, that will take State’s eco-tourism to next higher level.”